Miller Dam, located in Jefferson County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 350 feet, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. Situated on Shirtz Creek, a tributary of Big Cedar Creek, the dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Miller Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding environment and enhancing water security for the community. Despite not having a spillway or outlet gates, the dam continues to provide essential services while meeting state permitting and inspection requirements.
As a key feature in the local landscape, Miller Dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. With its historical significance and functional design, the dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies and private owners in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SHIRTZ CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.79 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
North Skunk River Near Sigourney
|
97cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Cedar Creek Near Oakland Mills
|
10cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Big Creek Near Mt. Pleasant
|
0cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Darling State Park Campground
|
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Manhattan Bridge Access
|
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Lake Darling State Park
|
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Skunk River Access
|